activate meaning and definition

ACTIVATE verb

Definition of activate (verb)

1. put in motion or move to act
   • "trigger a reaction"; "actuate the circuits"
   • synonyms: actuate, set off, spark, spark off, touch off, trigger, trigger off, trip
2. make active or more active
   • "activate an old file"
   • antonym: deactivate
3. make more adsorptive
   • "activate a metal"
4. aerate (sewage) so as to favor the growth of organisms that decompose organic matter
   • synonyms: aerate
5. make (substances) radioactive